PlanJam!From your screen to the scene

Sometimes all you need is comfort food and kitsch, but in NYC, that's often asking for a lot. If it's baked macaroni and cheese in a teal booth you crave, check out Vynl Restaurant (754 9th Avenue). The theme of this eatery is music – menus are made of old record albums and the overall décor is dedicated to favorite singers and bands.

If you take a seat at the bar, definitely try their signature Vynl cocktail ($8) – mixed with lemonade, vodka, and something that makes it pink and delicious. You'll get to check out lots of old school music memorabilia like Run DMC dolls or Beatles action figures but alas, these aren't for sale. The menu is packed with things you'd find at a diner (hamburgers, quesadillas, wraps) but with some Thai infused dishes too.

Though I've eaten here day and night, Vynl really comes to life in the evening. Music starts blasting at happy hour and as the lights go dim, the disco ball comes on. It's almost like Happy Days meets the O.C. with the restaurant's kitschy feel but retro modern vibe. Don't expect first class service here or delicious dishes. Go to Vynl for the experience – not for the food.

It's only fair to admit the real reason I go to Vynl when I'm on the west side is for the bathrooms. First time customers will be confused by the doors that read "Elvis", "Dolly", or "Nelly" and probably won't know what to expect. Though each bathroom is gender neutral (meaning the "Elvis" isn't just for guys), you might want to step inside whichever artist you prefer, since each bathroom is an homage to that particular songbird (wall-size mosaic portrait and all). If you're lucky enough (or, er, I guess unlucky) to stay inside the bathroom long enough, you'll catch on that the tune blasting from the ceiling are always only sung by the singer whose bathroom you're visiting. Sound confusing? Go check out Vynl for yourself…even if it's only for a drink and a brief bathroom break.